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Capecitabine-based chemotherapy

Ain Shams University · Phase 3 active Small molecule

Capecitabine is a prodrug that is converted to fluorouracil in tumor tissue, where it inhibits thymidylate synthase and gets incorporated into DNA and RNA to disrupt cancer cell replication.

Capecitabine is a prodrug that is converted to fluorouracil in tumor tissue, where it inhibits thymidylate synthase and gets incorporated into DNA and RNA to disrupt cancer cell replication. Used for Metastatic colorectal cancer, Metastatic breast cancer, Gastric cancer.

At a glance

Generic nameCapecitabine-based chemotherapy
SponsorAin Shams University
Drug classFluoropyrimidine antimetabolite
TargetThymidylate synthase
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaOncology
PhasePhase 3

Mechanism of action

Capecitabine is an oral fluoropyrimidine carbamate that undergoes hepatic and tumor-selective conversion to 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). Once activated, 5-FU inhibits thymidylate synthase, blocking dTMP synthesis and DNA replication, while also incorporating into RNA to disrupt protein synthesis. This dual mechanism leads to cancer cell death, particularly in rapidly dividing cells.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

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SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

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